**Ukraine and US Presidents Discuss End of War and Sanctions**
In a recent call, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky had a “productive conversation” with U.S. President Donald Trump about ending Russia’s war in Ukraine. The call took place just three days before Trump’s deadline for Russia to stop the invasion.
During their discussion, Zelensky expressed gratitude towards Trump for his efforts towards a peaceful resolution. He emphasized that it is crucial to put an end to the killing as soon as possible and fully supports Trump’s push for peace. The two leaders also shared their assessments of the battlefield situation, with Zelensky noting that Russia has intensified its brutal attacks.
**Russia Fears New US Sanctions**
The Ukrainian president highlighted how Moscow is sensitive to the prospect of new U.S. sanctions and Trump’s resolve in imposing them. He described this as a key lever that can make a significant difference in changing the situation on the ground. The two leaders also talked about expanding defense cooperation, with Zelensky stating that Ukraine has prepared a draft agreement on drone cooperation with the US.
**US Funding for Ukraine**
Zelensky expressed his thanks to the United States and NATO partners, including the Netherlands, Sweden, Norway, and Denmark, for committing over $1 billion in funding for American weapons to be delivered to Ukraine. This scheme was proposed by Trump in June, where countries would purchase U.S.-made arms, including air defense systems, and send some of them to Ukraine.
**Trump’s Deadline**
Senior American diplomat John Kelley reminded the U.N. Security Council on July 31 that Trump expects a peace deal by August 8. Trump warned that unless Russia agreed to halt its invasion, sweeping new sanctions would take effect within 10 days, targeting countries that continue to buy Russian oil, gas, and other exports.
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